Red Banana 'Rojo' (Musa sumatrana 'Rojo'): Ornamental Banana with Blood-Red Leaves

The red banana 'Rojo', also called variegated blood banana, is a stunning ornamental banana with huge, paddle-shaped leaves that are deep green with intense burgundy-red blotches and margins. The pseudostem is also red. Native to Sumatra, Musa sumatrana 'Rojo' adds dramatic tropical flair but rarely fruits in cultivation.

Growing Requirements

Full sun to partial shade, rich, moist, well-drained soil. Heavy feeder—fertilize monthly. Needs ample water and humidity. In zones 9-11, it's perennial; in cooler zones, grow in large containers and overwinter indoors, or dig and store corms dormant.

Landscape Impact

Use as a focal point, in tropical borders, or by pools. The bold foliage contrasts beautifully with fine-textured plants. Wind can shred leaves; provide shelter. It's fast-growing, reaching 6-10 feet in a season.

Taxonomic Details